Paul Dummett is in contention for a role at Manchester United on Sunday - according to Steve Bruce.
The defender has not played since his dramatic cameo against Southampton when he made seven clearances in 20 minutes at St James' Park in a 3-2 win.
The retired Wales international has suffered with injuries in recent months but Newcastle are taking their time with the long-serving left-sided player.
Bruce said: "We’ll need his experience and know-how.
"We’re also mindful of just throwing him in there.
"Since Southampton, he’s trained another week and the more sessions he does the better.
"He’s there or thereabouts."
Dwight Gayle is another battling for a place in the starting line-up with Callum Wilson sidelined with a hamstring injury.
The former Crystal Palace man started only his first game of the season in the 2-0 loss at Chelsea but is hungry for more.
Bruce said: "Monday was always going to be difficult for Dwight.
"It was his first start of the season but he stuck at it, got 65 minutes under his belt and we always know he can score a goal."
